Our Pastoral Care

At Hurlingham, we believe that children thrive when they feel happy, safe, and truly known. Excellent pastoral care is not an add-on – it is the foundation of everything we do. 

Our aim is simple: to create a school where every child feels secure, that they belong and are able to flourish both emotionally and academically.

We care deeply about each individual, nurturing their wellbeing through strong relationships, a culture of kindness, and a commitment to listening to every voice – however quiet. From the moment a child joins us, they are surrounded by a network of adults and peers who know them well and care about them deeply – from dedicated Form Teachers and Teaching Assistants to our experienced Heads of Section, SENCO, Wellbeing Coordinator, and Mental Health Champions.

Pastoral care is woven into daily school life. Pupils benefit from a thoughtfully designed personal development programme exploring themes like empathy, resilience and respectful relationships. Weekly big questions, daily journaling, and mindfulness moments encourage self-reflection and emotional growth.

We believe in the power of community. 

Our buddy systems, pupil leadership roles, and House events help foster a sense of belonging and shared responsibility. And for those times when life presents challenges, pupils know they can turn to any adult for support – whether it's a quiet word with a trusted teacher or time spent with our school dog, Hardy, whose calming presence brings joy to every corner of the school.

Pastoral care at Hurlingham is not a single role or policy – it is a shared commitment. It is the way we teach, speak, listen, and lead. It is how we help every child feel seen, heard and valued – every single day.

House System

At Hurlingham, our House System is more than just a tradition – it’s a vital part of how we build community, foster belonging, and celebrate every child’s unique contribution to school life.

When children join us, they are welcomed into one of our four Houses: Heron, Kingfisher, Mallard, or Swan – named after the birds that graced the riverbanks of the School’s original Thames-side location. Siblings are always placed in the same House, ensuring a shared identity and sense of unity across families.

Our Houses are vibrant, inclusive communities that bring together pupils from all year groups. This cross-age connection nurtures empathy, leadership, and friendship beyond the classroom and year group boundaries. Whether it’s a Year 6 child supporting a younger buddy, or the whole House cheering each other on at Sports Day, these relationships build confidence and character.

Throughout the year, Houses compete in a range of spirited events – from sports tournaments and quizzes to creative challenges and poetry slams. House points are awarded for kindness, effort, teamwork, and excellence, recognising and rewarding the values we hold dear. At the end of each term, we celebrate the House with the highest total, building pride and shared purpose.

Each House also leads a whole-school charity event, giving pupils the opportunity to work together, take initiative, and contribute meaningfully to the world beyond the school gates.

At its heart, the House System gives every child a sense of belonging – a place to be known, to be valued, and to shine as part of something bigger than themselves.